Lori & Josh: University Circle Engagement

This shoot was very, very special to me. Lori was one of my very best friends growing up in Michigan, and we have endless fun and adventurous memories together. She was always the friend I could go to for advice or just to pour my heart out. She was there when I first laid my eyes on my husband (we were 14!) and she was always the one encouraging me when I was in doubt. We had a blast playing high school volleyball together, she always shared her yummy lunches with me, and we were both heavily involved in our church youth group activities. I’m not really sure if my teenage years would be nearly as memorable if it wasn’t for Lori! Once I got married, we had to go our separate ways, but ironically (and thankfully!) Lori found her soulmate here in Cleveland, so soon we will be living in the same city again. Lori met Josh while she was in her graduate program, and they really are a perfect match. I’d always hope and pray that Lori would find the perfect guy for her, and she really did. Josh is so sweet and caring – just the type of person I always hoped Lori would marry. Lori, words can’t express how happy and excited I am for you and Josh! I can’t wait to be part of your wedding this summer!

Many thanks to the amazing Janelle at With Love and Whimsy Events for styling their engagement shoot!

Diana Lupu - Oh, man. I am in love with all the details, the spring flowers, and her outfits!!! And then there are these gorgeous images… LOVE. =)

Hayley & Rowan: NYC Love Shoot

It was one of the coldest days NYC has seen this year, but that didn’t stop Hayley and Rown (coming from sunny Australia) from making the most of their trip to the US. They absolutely adore traveling and are probably the sweetest, happiest newlyweds I have ever met! It was a joy to spend a few hours with them even in the frigid temperatures. As you can see, Hayley has a constant smile on her face that would make anyone’s day turn bright. Rowan was such a gentleman and they were both great company. I was so thankful that they chose me to document a small part of their trip! Hayley and Rowan, I hope you come visit us again soon!

One

It was a cold, wintery January morning when I first saw your face. After four hours of pushing, I could hardly wait to feel you safely placed in my arms. My eyes clouded by the tears that filled them, I could hardly see you. But that brief moment I held you for the first time was one of the best feelings of my life. Since that day you have only brought us endless smiles and laughter. Every time you take a nap or go to sleep, tata and I talk about how much we miss you and how we can’t wait for you to wake up so we can make you laugh and play with you. We love your funny faces, your intense conversations in baby language, your gestures, and everything that makes you so unique. Your personality is so pleasant, and everyone we know loves to be around you. We are beyond blessed to have you as our child. We pray for you daily that God would protect you and bless you with the amazing gift of salvation. We pray that he will give us wisdom as parents to raise you the best way we can. We pray that God will give you a meek, loving and gentle spirit – one that is sacrificial and kind. We know without a doubt that his plan for you is perfect, and we are looking forward to a lifetime of friendship with you. We love you, our precious Elise! Happy first birthday!

To see a slideshow of Elise’s first year, click here.

Moises Batista - Happy birthday! beautiful pic…

Megan & Jonathan: Chagrin Falls Wedding

I was very excited when I woke up the morning of Megan and Jonathan’s winter wedding. The snow was peacefully falling, the ground was white and the trees were outlined in frost. I prayed several times that it would snow for their wedding since I don’t often have the opportunity to photograph winter weddings. The snow created the most beautiful, soft and romantic light making my job pretty simple especially with a couple as stunning as these two. After the couple’s ceremony at Parkside Church, we headed to Chagrin Falls for their reception at Tanglewood Country Club in their newly renovated space for wedding receptions. Megan and Jonathan, thank you for braving the cold and the snow…I certainly believe it was worth it in the end! Enjoy!

Jon - Your photos are splendid Megan. It looks as if you’ve found your prince charming. Hopefully I’ll get to meet him some day. I pray God’s blessings on your new marriage.

Carol T. - BEAUTIFUL!

Kierstin Havens - I absolutely llllluuuuuuuvvvvvvv the 1with the umbrella in it it looks like Marry Poppins!!!!☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔☔

Daniella Vulpe - You should totally do more winter weddings. How gorgeous!